Your Attitude Affects Your Health

This section is compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C. Send all comments or additions to:Frankp@chiro.org

By Marilyn Gard

It has long been a popular notion that
"dis-ease" is something that happens to us, something outside our control.
Disease is an outsider that invades our bodies, rendering us helpless to resist. Excellent
health, the opposite of disease, is viewed as a blessing bestowed only on a select few. It
is precisely this viewpoint that sometimes keeps us from experiencing the optimal level of
health.

Granted, there are diseases which can
adversely affect our health. No one would argue that fact. However, there are things that
you, can do to achieve better health. I have found that one of the keys is a positive
mental attitude.

Do you know people who are constantly so
negative that you have learned never to greet them with the traditional "How are
you?" Your greeting is answered by a litany of complaints, ranging from a sore throat
to achy joints. You quickly become sorry you asked! (and you vow to never ask again!)
Regardless of the circumstances, the person never feels good. You often wonder if this
person spent childhood sick as a way to get attention. This can be a learned behavior.

There are two ways that your attitude can
speed your healing process. One involves direct action on your part. When your doctor
gives you specific recommendations about your treatment schedule, this has been based upon
their experience with patients with similar problems. They have found that patients who
adhere to the treatment schedule feel better faster. Their bodies heal faster and the
underlying cause of the problem  the subluxation  is corrected sooner.
Skipping appointments delays and prolongs the healing process.

The second way you can affect your healing
is to set up positive conditions for change. Believe that you will feel better and send
this message to your body. Picture yourself doing things you love pain free. Spend time in
meditation, letting go of negative thoughts about your body. Your positive attitude will
send healing to the affected areas.

What you think does make a difference. While a positive
attitude cannot guarantee perfect health, it can make a noticeable difference.